If My Neighbor’s Dog Bite Me, Should I Contact a Clovis Dog Bite Attorney?

When a neighbor’s dog attacks, the incident can leave you with more than just physical injuries. You may face mounting medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and emotional trauma from the attack. Many people hesitate to take legal action against a neighbor, worried about damaging the relationship or seeming confrontational. However, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial for protecting your health and financial well-being after a dog bite injury in Clovis, California.

Understanding California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Laws

California operates under a strict liability statute for dog bites, which means dog owners are typically responsible for injuries their animals cause, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies. This law applies whether the attack occurred on your property, your neighbor’s property, or in a public space like a neighborhood park or sidewalk.

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is liable if you were lawfully present at the location where the bite occurred and did not provoke the animal. This protection extends to situations where you were invited onto your neighbor’s property or were simply walking past their home when the attack happened.

When You Should Contact a Dog Bite Attorney

Several factors indicate that consulting with an attorney who has handled dog bite cases would benefit your situation:

Serious Injuries Requiring Medical Treatment: If the attack resulted in deep lacerations, facial injuries, infections, nerve damage, or the need for reconstructive surgery, the compensation you deserve likely exceeds what a homeowner’s insurance company will initially offer. These injuries often require ongoing medical care and may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.

Disputed Liability: Your neighbor may claim you provoked their dog or were trespassing, attempting to shift blame away from themselves and their pet. An attorney can help gather evidence demonstrating you acted lawfully and appropriately.

Insurance Company Complications: Homeowner’s insurance policies typically cover dog bite injuries, but insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts. They may offer quick, low settlements before you fully understand the extent of your injuries, or they may delay the claims process hoping you’ll give up.

Significant Financial Losses: Beyond immediate medical expenses, you may face lost income if injuries prevent you from working, reduced earning capacity if permanent limitations result, and ongoing psychological counseling costs if you develop anxiety or PTSD related to the attack.

Taking Action While Preserving Community Relationships

Many people worry that pursuing legal action will create lasting tension with neighbors. However, homeowner’s insurance exists precisely to cover these situations, and you’re typically dealing with an insurance company rather than directly impacting your neighbor’s finances. More importantly, taking legal action demonstrates that dangerous dogs require proper control and supervision, potentially preventing future attacks on other children or adults in your neighborhood.

Next Steps After a Dog Bite

First, seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Dog bites carry significant infection risks, and medical documentation creates a crucial record for any potential claim. Report the incident to Clovis animal control authorities, establishing an official record of the attack. Document everything: photograph your injuries, save all medical bills and records, and write down details about the incident while memories remain fresh.

How Nunes Law, Inc. Handles Dog Bite Cases

At Nunes Law, Inc., we understand the unique challenges victims face after dog attacks, particularly when the responsible party is someone living in your neighborhood. Attorney Frank Nunes brings extensive courtroom experience and a comprehensive knowledge of California personal injury law to every case, having helped clients throughout Fresno County and the Central Valley recover compensation for their injuries.

Our approach begins with a thorough investigation of your incident, including gathering medical records, photographs of your injuries, witness statements, and documentation of the dog’s history if previous incidents occurred. We handle all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics designed to reduce your settlement.

Frank Nunes previously served as in-house counsel for a national insurance company, giving him intimate knowledge of how these companies work to discredit and reject claims. He now uses that experience to advocate for injured individuals, ensuring they receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

If you’re dealing with serious injuries or facing resistance from insurance companies, don’t navigate this process alone. Contact our Clovis personal injury law firm at (559) 206-3783 to discuss your situation during a free consultation. We can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you understand the potential compensation available for your injuries. Time limits apply to personal injury claims in California, so reaching out promptly protects your rights while allowing you to focus on healing.